The second round of the 2026 Masters is in the books, and Augusta National has begun to separate the contenders from the pack. As Friday's play concluded, the iconic course set the stage for a dramatic weekend, with the cut line sending some big names home early while a familiar star seized control.

Rory McIlroy delivered a masterclass in closing, carding six birdies over his final seven holes to storm into a commanding six-stroke lead. This incredible surge puts him in the driver's seat as he continues his quest for the career Grand Slam.

Meanwhile, the tournament's pressure took its toll on other favorites. World No. 1 Scottie Scheffler struggled to find his rhythm, shooting two-over on the day to sit at even par and in a tie for 24th. In a stunning turn of events, Bryson DeChambeau's hopes ended with a triple-bogey on the 18th hole, causing him to miss the cut, as did Akshay Bhatia after a difficult +8 performance on the back nine.

With the field now trimmed, the stage is set for a moving-day showdown. All eyes will be on McIlroy to see if he can maintain his blistering form, while the chasing pack looks to mount a charge on golf's most hallowed ground.